MENUOdds are, at some time you’ll need to visit a dentist and have some type of dental treatment. However, do you know what you should do—and avoid doing—after your treatment? Naturally, our dentist will tell you what you should do after your treatment, but we’re happy to give you a few ideas on what you should expect after common treatments.
For instance, do you know what you should do after you have a filling? There are a few things we recommend, including avoiding hot and cold foods for a few days. You see, your teeth may be sensitive to hot and cold during this time—but extreme temperatures could also damage your filling. We recommend brushing and flossing gently for a few days so you don’t damage your filling.
Similarly, there are a few things you’ll want to do if you’ve had a crown placed. After you receive a crown, you should avoid biting down on it for at least an hour, as the cement that keeps your crown in place needs time to harden. After you have crowns, we recommend avoiding sticky sweets like taffy, as they can pull your crown off. Also, please be aware that you may experience some sensitivity for a few days.
Caring for a tooth extraction requires a little more effort. For instance, it is extremely important that you stay away from straws, cigars, smoking, and even spitting for at least 24 hours. Doing any of these things could result in an extremely painful dry socket. Please remember to place gauze on your extraction site until the tooth stops bleeding. You should also remember to place an ice pack on your cheek near the extraction site, but remember to only use the ice pack in ten-minute increments. Â
If you’re interested in learning more, please don’t hesitate to give Northwest Dental Associates at phone. Dr. Bryan and Dr. Davis and our team will be happy to answer any questions you may have. Â